The Milwaukee Bucks have been known as playoff “chokers” for the past few seasons, but they deserve to have that name tag. In 2019 the Bucks had a 2-0 series lead against the Toronto Raptors which evaporated quickly as the Raptors went on to win four straight and advance to the NBA finals. Teams would focus their defense against the Bucks on creating a wall that stopped Giannis Antetokounmpo completely. Khris Middleton would have great regular seasons and when the playoffs came around, he became invisible. This year however, the Bucks look really scary and ready to win it all.
Milwaukee has showcased a much deeper, deadlier team this season and we’ve all witnessed it as they swept the Heat in the first round. Milwaukee beat the Heat by an average margin of 20.5 points per game, and have shown how lethal they are on both ends of the floor. Everything was clicking for Milwaukee and everyone has been stepping up. Jrue Holiday has taken the pressure off Giannis and Middleton which has resulted in more space for them on offense. The Bucks don’t have to rely on Giannis for every basket anymore, which is what makes them so scary. Middleton has performed well and players like Bryn Forbes and Bobby Portis have been thriving in their roles off the bench. The acquisition of PJ Tucker has also provided the Bucks with much needed veteran and defensive presence.
The offseason additions are what have separated this Bucks team to other Bucks teams over the years. Management has finally given Giannis a PG that can create his own shot and they’ve surrounded Giannis with 3 point shooters. There is no reason why this team can’t beat the Sixers or Nets in a series and advance to the NBA finals.
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